LDAP is a type of external authentication that can provide rich details about authenticated users, including email address, group membership and client certificates.

LDAP connection use TCP port 389 but can (and should) be secured with SSL. When LDAP is secured in this manner, it typically uses TCP port 636 and is often referred to as “LDAPS”.

BEST PRACTICE: Use the SSL secured version of LDAP whenever possible; the information these data streams contain should be treated like passwords in transit. Store as much information about the user in LDAP as your file transfer technology will permit; this will improve your ability to retain centralized control of that data and allow you to easily switch to different file transfer technology if your needs change.